TAVI/TAVR Procedure FAQs – Answered by Dr. Gautam Swaroop, Top Cardiologist in Lucknow
Best Cardiologist in Lucknow: Your Ultimate Guide to Heart Care 
Heart valve diseases, especially aortic valve narrowing (aortic stenosis), can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. Traditionally, open-heart surgery was the only option for valve replacement. But today, a minimally invasive procedure called TAVI/TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation/Replacement) is offering new hope.
At Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, under the leadership of Dr. Gautam Swaroop – Director of Cardiac Sciences, we provide advanced valve care, including TAVI/TAVR for eligible patients.
This blog answers the most common patient questions about TAVI/TAVR in a simple, patient-friendly manner.
What is TAVI/TAVR?
Answer:
TAVI (also called TAVR) is a minimally invasive heart procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve without open-heart surgery.
- Instead of cutting open the chest, doctors insert a catheter (thin tube) through the leg artery or chest artery.
- A new valve is placed inside the diseased aortic valve.
- The new valve expands and takes over the function of regulating blood flow.
📌 Think of TAVI as “placing a new valve inside your old valve” – without the need for a big surgical cut.
Who needs TAVI?
Answer:
TAVI is recommended for patients with:
- Severe aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve).
- High-risk or inoperable patients who cannot undergo open-heart surgery.
- Elderly patients (commonly above 70 years).
- Patients with other health conditions (diabetes, kidney problems, lung issues) that make surgery risky.
📌 If you are in Lucknow or nearby cities in Uttar Pradesh, TAVI is now available at Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, offering a safer alternative to conventional surgery.
How is TAVI different from surgical valve replacement?
| Feature | TAVI/TAVR | Surgical Valve Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Minimally invasive (catheter-based) | Open-heart surgery (chest opened) |
| Anesthesia | Local or mild sedation | General anesthesia |
| Hospital Stay | 2–4 days | 7–10 days |
| Recovery Time | 1–2 weeks | 6–8 weeks |
| Risk Level | Safer for elderly & high-risk patients | Higher risk in fragile patients |
TAVI avoids open surgery, making recovery faster and safer for older patients.
What are the benefits of TAVI?
- Less pain compared to surgery.
- Shorter hospital stay.
- Faster recovery – patients can return to daily activities in days.
- Reduced risk of complications in elderly or weak patients.
- Proven to improve life expectancy and quality of life.
Is TAVI safe?
Answer: Yes, TAVI has been performed worldwide for more than a decade and has shown excellent results. At Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, the procedure is performed by a skilled multidisciplinary team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons led by Dr. Gautam Swaroop, Best Cardiologist in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow.
Risks are minimal compared to open surgery, but possible complications may include bleeding, stroke, or vascular injury. With modern technology and expertise, the success rate is very high.
How long does the TAVI procedure take?
Answer: Usually 60–90 minutes.
Patients are often able to sit up the next day and may go home within 3–4 days.
How long does a TAVI valve last?
Answer: Clinical studies show that TAVI valves last 10–15 years, similar to surgical valves. For elderly patients, this often means lasting benefits for the rest of their life.
What is the cost of TAVI in India / Lucknow?
Answer:
- The cost of TAVI in India generally ranges between ₹18–25 lakhs, depending on the type of valve and hospital.
- At Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, we provide personalized care packages and transparent cost guidance.
📌 Looking for affordable TAVI in Lucknow? Contact Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital for details.
How do I prepare for TAVI?
- Blood tests, ECG, echocardiogram, and CT scan will be done before the procedure.
- Doctors will guide you regarding medications (like blood thinners).
- You may need to stop eating/drinking a few hours before the procedure.
Who performs the TAVI procedure?
Answer: At Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, TAVI is performed by a Heart Team led by Dr. Gautam Swaroop, Experienced Heart Specialist in Lucknow, which includes:
- Interventional Cardiologists
- Cardiac Surgeons
- Imaging Specialists
- Anaesthesiologists
This team-based approach ensures maximum safety for every patient.
Can TAVI be repeated if needed?
Answer: Yes. In some cases, a second valve (valve-in-valve procedure) can be placed if the first valve wears out after several years.
What is recovery like after TAVI?
- Most patients can walk the next day.
- You may resume light activities in a few days.
Full recovery takes about 1–2 weeks, much faster than surgical recovery.
FAQs Section
Q1:Is TAVI painful?
A: No, patients are under sedation or local anesthesia. Only mild discomfort may be felt.
Q2: Is TAVI available in Lucknow?
A: Yes, Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow, offers advanced TAVI treatment.
Q3: Who is not suitable for TAVI?
A: Patients with certain anatomical issues (like very small arteries or other valve problems) may not be eligible. A doctor’s evaluation is necessary.
Q4: Can younger patients undergo TAVI?
A: TAVI is mainly for elderly or high-risk patients, but in select cases, younger patients may also benefit.
Call-to-Action
If you or your loved one has been advised aortic valve replacement, consult with Dr. Gautam Swaroop at Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow to see if TAVI is the right option for you.
📞 Book your consultation today → Contact Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
